Breck Cayce – On Transplant List (Liver)

I was informed I had liver problems about 8 years ago during a routine insurance physical.  I have always been in good health and have been a non-drinker all my life, so as you can imagine, it was a big shock to me.  My local doctor sent me to Vanderbilt where I’ve been followed for the past eight years.

It is unknown as to why I have cirrhosis, being a non-drinker, but I am told that about 15% of liver disease is non-alcohol related. 

In August, 2009, my MELD score reached a serious level and I was placed on Vanderbilt’s transplant list.  (MELD is a calculated score which determines the severity of a patient’s liver disease.)  I do not know how long I will need to wait before a liver is available.  The unknown is difficult and the anxiety can be overwhelming.

I try very hard to keep my condition from affecting my family life.   I am exhausted when I come home from work and usually need a nap.  I can’t go as hard as I used to without stopping and resting.  I don’t have much appetite and just don’t have the get up and go I used to.  I am trying to stay as active as I can to keep from losing muscle.  According to the doctors, it will be possible to regain most of what I have lost once I receive my transplant.

My wife and family are very understanding and supportive.  They try not to show they’re worried, but I think my condition and the unknown are always in the back of their minds.

I am, and always have been, registered as an organ donor and now realize just how important it is.  Lives can be saved.  I hope each person reading this will say YES and become a donor.